A Florida resident has taken legal action against a prominent real estate trust, alleging negligence that led to severe personal injuries. Francisco De La Vera filed a complaint in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, on February 4, 2025, against United Dominion Realty Trust, also known as UDR, Inc., doing business as The Breyley.
The case centers around an incident that occurred on April 2, 2023, at an apartment complex owned and operated by the defendant located at 1818 Sunset Point Road in Clearwater. De La Vera claims he was lawfully present on the property as a tenant when he slipped and fell due to a water leak from the apartment unit above his own. This accident allegedly resulted in serious personal injuries for De La Vera. According to the complaint, "Defendant’s agents, servants, and employees acted within the course and scope of their employment," implying that they were responsible for maintaining safe conditions on the premises.
De La Vera's lawsuit accuses United Dominion Realty Trust of negligence by failing to maintain its premises safely and not warning tenants about potential hazards. The complaint asserts that "Defendant breached its duty owed to Plaintiff...by negligently and carelessly maintaining the above-referenced premises." Furthermore, it is alleged that the hazardous condition existed long enough for the defendant to have been aware of it through ordinary care but failed to take corrective action.
As a result of this alleged negligence, De La Vera claims to have suffered various forms of harm including pain and suffering, disability, mental anguish, loss of earnings capacity both past and future, among others. These damages are described as permanent and ongoing in nature. Consequently, De La Vera seeks judgment for damages exceeding $50,000 along with costs and interest from United Dominion Realty Trust. He also demands a jury trial for all issues deemed triable by right.
Representing Francisco De La Vera is Irwin Ast from IRWIN AST P.A., based in Miami. The case has been assigned Case Number: 25-000523-CI with Judge Ken Burke overseeing proceedings at Pinellas County Circuit Court.